Plans to restore one of South Tyneside’s best-loved parks have been given a funding boost after securing initial support* for £2.45 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Big Lottery Fund.
This support, as well as a development grant of £194,000, means that South Tyneside Council and the Friends group can work together to bring forward detailed plans for North Marine Park. These will seek to restore the park back to its Victorian character for future generations to enjoy.
Detailed discussion and consultation has already taken place with the public and the Friends of the Park groups on how best to return the park to its former grandeur. However, the Council is keen to see more people getting involved and is asking anyone interested in the project to contact the Friends or Gary Frazer for more information on (0191) 424 7855.
Key elements of the project include creating better links between the park and the newly transformed Littlehaven Promenade and Seawall as well as improving the area round the Lawe Top which, as the park’s highest point, acts a viewing platform for the stunning coastline and harbour.
The plans also include restoring original features such as the grotto and the promenade staircase as well as introducing new features such as a play area and a café. Improvements to the bowling area are also planned as well as special arts installations.
The second stage grant to HLF and BLF will be for around £2.45 million and, if successful, would see work starting at the park at the beginning of 2018.
Margaret Thompson, Chairman of the Friends of North and South Marine Parks, said: “The Friends of the Marine Parks are delighted to learn of the success of the first stage of the National Lottery bid to carry out the exciting restoration of the much loved North Marine Park. The renewal and restoration of the North Marine Park will further enhance the stunning refurbishments of the north and south foreshores and the exquisite coastal paths beyond. The ‘Friends’ look forward to giving the Borough Council their full and enthusiastic support to ensure the fulfilment of this latest vision for South Shields.”
Councillor Moira Smith, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, added: “North Marine Park is a haven of peace and tranquillity, offering great views and the opportunity to try some gentle pastimes.
“However, we are very keen to preserve and enhance its beauty and heritage for future generations. The Friends of the Park and the wider public have given us some great ideas for their vision of how they want the park to be restored but we are keen to see more people getting involved in this project as this will increase our chances of getting second stage funding.”
North and South Marine Parks opened in June 1890. A more peaceful space than its southern neighbour, North Marine Park offers residents and visitors alike a break from the pressures of modern life.
Councillor Alan Kerr, Deputy Leader with responsibility for Leisure and Culture, said: “Thanks to Heritage Lottery funding, we have already restored neighbouring South Marine Park to its Victorian splendour. It would be marvellous if we could secure the funding to do the same with North Marine Park which will go some way towards our aim to make South Shields the region’s premier coastal resort.”
The support for North Marine Park comes as part of an announcement of £30.7 million for 16 parks across the UK.
HLF’s Chair, Sir Peter Luff, said on behalf of HLF and Big Lottery Fund: “It’s clear that our parks are important to us in countless ways – from physical and mental wellbeing to a connection with nature and our heritage. It’s also clear, however, that public parks must work in new ways to respond to the funding challenges they face and this investment, thanks to National Lottery players, will help them to do this.
“We’re delighted to announce this funding today, especially in time for the tenth Love Parks Week, and look forward to a bright future for these parks.”
Anyone interested in joining the Friends of North and South Marine Parks and getting involved in the project to regenerate North Marine Park is asked to email friendsoftheparksouthshields@hotmail.co.uk